Pensioners living in collapsing house

The Malta Independent on line


http://www.independent.com.mt/news.asp?newsitemid=98845

Two pensioners who live in the same rented debilitated house in St John Baptist Street Sliema, filed a court application calling for the Social Policy Ministry to grant them alternative accommodation

The residence of Marianne Gauci and John Vella was declared dangerous and in imminent risk of collapse. In particular, the roof stone slabs in the front room at the ground floor level have failed and exhibit cracks. All door jambs are in an advanced state of deterioration whilst humidity is very extensive in most parts of the building, particularly the dining room and kitchen.

The residents are deprived from going upstairs as a consequence of broken stairs. Meanwhile, the first floor was described to be in a worse state. Some roof slabs are missing while some rooms, including a bedroom, lack electricity. Stone jambs have dislodged themselves from the rest of the structure.

Sometime ago, a stone had fallen from the ceiling, hitting Ms Gauci in the head. She had needed stitches.

On 23 January, Ms Gauci reported that debris was falling from the ceiling. A police report was lodged and upon inspecting the building, two police officers advised the residents to seek alternative accommodation.

The case goes back over 20 years. In 1987, the police had taken criminal action against the residence owners, Zammit family, after failing to carry out the necessary works at the house. Since then, the house was sold and transferred to Mario Tonna, who was ordered by the police to present a technical report drawn up by an architect.

However, Mr Tonna failed to carry out the necessary works. Ms Gauci and Mr Vella believe he has the intention of forcing them of the building to demolish it and develop it as a commercial establishment.

A section of the building collapsed on 9 November and on 12 November. The police had ordered Mr Tonna to repair the building and remove the danger which existed to the tenants and pedestrians.

The complainants, asked for financial compensation for the risk they have been living in since 1986 and for breach of their rights.

Dr Tonio Azzopardi signed the application.